Retro Hospitality, the leading operator of boutique hotels in Virginia, is excited to announce the opening of Hotel Petersburg, a Tapestry Collection by Hilton property. An architectural gem in the heart of Old Towne Petersburg, the building has been a city cornerstone since its establishment in 1916. The newly restored 64-room upscale boutique hotel masterfully blends historical preservation with modern amenities.
Hotel Petersburg is located at 20 West Tabb Street in Petersburg’s Courthouse Historic District, a neighborhood recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. Owing to its achievement in preserving and maintaining its historic integrity, architecture, and ambiance, Hotel Petersburg has been designated a member of Historic Hotels of America, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation recognizing and celebrating the finest historic hotels.
Hotel Petersburg operated as a hotel from 1916 until 1969 when a fire left the building severely damaged. Petersburg entrepreneur Nat Cuthbert purchased the vacant building in 2017 and worked with The Yellow Room architecture firm to reimagine the space. Today, the seven-story building blends artful design with the building’s 20th Century Second Renaissance Revival Style featuring original marble columns, a grand marble staircase with brass handrails, and terra cotta cornices with Italian-inspired scrolls on the exterior. These architectural elements have been meticulously restored to accentuate the history and elegance of this beloved Petersburg treasure.
“I grew up in Petersburg and raised my family here. I’ve always loved this building and I knew it had great potential,” said Nat Cuthbert, hotel owner and developer. “To have a boutique hotel of this caliber in Petersburg is an exciting moment for this great city. I look forward to seeing both locals and visitors enjoying Hotel Petersburg and all that the area has to offer.”
“As the only upscale boutique hotel in the area, Hotel Petersburg will play a crucial role in driving tourism and celebrating the city’s rich history,” said Paul Cooper, CEO of Retro Hospitality. “It will serve as the perfect hub for visitors as they explore downtown shops, museums, historic sites and beautiful architecture.”
In 1915, renowned architect Charles M. Robinson designed the Hotel Petersburg to replace what was then a West Tabb Street mansion operating as The Shirley Hotel. When the hotel opened in 1916, it was outfitted with 125 guest rooms, a formal dining room and a barbershop.
The hotel’s unique dining and entertainment options are a nod to the hotel’s past: Shirley’s, a full-service restaurant and bar serving seasonal fare; 20 West, a rooftop lounge with curated cocktails and sweeping city views; and The Boiler Room, a spirits bar with speakeasy vibes. An outdoor courtyard will provide a green space for guests to relax.
Hotel Petersburg is an ideal location for small meetings and social gatherings, catering to both indoor and outdoor events. Four versatile venues provide 2,200 square feet of meeting space.
